OUR FAQ question
FAQ’S
What is SSDAA?
SSDAA stands for South Sudanese Diaspora Advocacy Alliance. It is a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to uniting South Sudanese in the diaspora to promote peace, unity and community development. SSDAA also works to amplify the voices of South Sudanese at home, fostering collaboration between the diaspora communities and the citizens in South Sudanese for more peaceful and prosperous communities.
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Why was SSDAA created?
It was formed to address the lack of collective organization among South Sudanese communities in the diaspora. SSDAA provides a platform to organize, advocate, and build solutions for our people both abroad and back home.
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Who are the founders of SSDAA?
A: SSDAA was founded by a group of committed members of South Sudanese diaspora who recognized the urgent need for unity, peace, development, advocacy, and collective
action. The founders came together with a shared vision of building a non-tribal, non- political, non-violent and non-regional organization that represents all South Sudanese
equally. While SSDAA acknowledges the leadership of individuals who initiated its incorporation and organizational framework, the organization emphasizes collective
ownership belonging to all members rather than to a few individuals.
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action. The founders came together with a shared vision of building a non-tribal, non- political, non-violent and non-regional organization that represents all South Sudanese
equally. While SSDAA acknowledges the leadership of individuals who initiated its incorporation and organizational framework, the organization emphasizes collective
ownership belonging to all members rather than to a few individuals.
Who is SSDAA advocating for?
SSDAA advocates for South Sudanese in the diaspora, to ensure their voices are heard, their communities are organized, and their needs are addressed in host countries. SSDAA will also advocate for communities in South Sudan, especially vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and displaced persons, by raising awareness, mobilizing resources, and influencing policies that promote peace and development in South Sudan, and preserves future generation and cultural identity by creating opportunities for education, leadership, and prosperity in Diaspora and in South Sudan.
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Why is SSDAA a non-violent movement?
SSDAA does not support violent activities or hateful speeches. Our mission is rooted in peace, unity, and development. We believe in dialogue, community mobilization, and constructive engagement as the tools to bring about positive change for South Sudanese both in the diaspora and at home.
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How do you ensure women and youth are engaged in SSDAA?
Youth and women are important pillars of the organization and at the heart of SSDAA’s mission. We ensure their engagement by creating safe space for youth and women participation and empower youth and women to become the agent of change in our communities, including women and youths in leadership and decision-making structures and creating mentorship, training, and capacity-building opportunities tailored for young people and women. SSDAA encourages equal participation in meetings, advocacy efforts, and community projects, and will actively recruit women and youth as members, recognizing their role as future leaders of South Sudan and the diaspora.
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What has SSDAA accomplished so far?
SSDAA has developed RoadMap (organizational playbook), bylaws, code of conduct, articles of incorporation, formed a six-member leadership team, incorporated SSDAA as an advocacy organization in Tennessee, set up organizational email systems and Google folders and begun the process of creating a website, registering as a 501(c)(3), and opening
a bank account.
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a bank account.
Who can join SSDAA?
Any South Sudanese in the diaspora (Outside of South Sudan), or friends of South Sudan who share our vision of unity, peace, and development, are welcome to join. Membership is
non-tribal, non-political, and non-regional. SSDAA welcomes all who believe in the unity of South Sudanese people and the values of togetherness, respect, and collective progress.
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non-tribal, non-political, and non-regional. SSDAA welcomes all who believe in the unity of South Sudanese people and the values of togetherness, respect, and collective progress.
What are the benefits of being a member?
Members gain a sense of community and belonging, a voice in advocacy and decision-making, access to training, leadership, and networking opportunities, opportunities to contribute to community development and peacebuilding and provided with a platform to preserve culture and identity in the diaspora.
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What is expected of members?
Members are expected to, participate actively in meetings and activities, uphold
SSDAA’s bylaws and code of conduct, contribute ideas, skills, and resources where possible, mobilize and invite others to join, provide Financial Support when necessary.
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SSDAA’s bylaws and code of conduct, contribute ideas, skills, and resources where possible, mobilize and invite others to join, provide Financial Support when necessary.
How is SSDAA funded?
Currently, SSDAA is funded through member contributions, donations, and voluntary support. In the future, it will also pursue grants and partnerships to support its projects.
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How often do SSDAA meet?
There are regular weekly orientation sessions for new members, general assembly meetings, and leadership meetings and on a by-monthly basis. Important events and updates are also shared through the WhatsApp group.
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How can I get involved right now?
Reach out to SSDAA handler by sending email with your name, location and contact information to info@seashell-gnu-399548.hostingersite.com , attend the orientation sessions, join the WhatsApp group after committing to membership, volunteer for committees or projects and spread the word about SSDAA to your network.
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What is the long-term vision of SSDAA?
The vision is to build a strong, united diaspora community that contributes to peace, unity, and development in South Sudan while empowering South Sudanese abroad to thrive in their host countries.
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How will SSDAA work for busy people, especially single mothers and busy couples?
SSDAA is designed with flexibility in mind. We understand that many of our members balance work, family, and other commitments. That’s why participation in SSDAA activities will be both in-person and virtual, allowing members to engage at their convenience. Programs such as financial empowerment workshops, parenting support networks, and online learning sessions are structured to fit busy schedules, ensuring that even the busiest members can stay involved and benefit.
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Many organizations have come and gone in the past with similar agendas. What makes SSDAA different?
SSDAA stands out because it was created by a group of South Sudanese professionals who see the need to develop their people. The organization is built on strong foundation of transparency, accountability, and measurable impact. Unlike many previous initiatives, SSDAA is an inclusive organization that operates through a structured and strategic governance system with clear goals and regular engagement and reporting. Our focus is on long-term sustainability, empowering communities through education, professional development, and social programs rather than short-term promises and activities.
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How will SSDAA remain non-political and avoid being aligned with any political party?
SSDAA is a non-political and non-partisan organization. Our bylaws clearly prohibit political alignment or endorsement of any political group or figure. We focus solely on community development, education, advocacy for peace and development, and unity. To maintain neutrality, SSDAA has established clear code of conduct, and will establish an independent Ethics and Oversight Committee that ensures SSDAA’s activities remain transparent, balanced, and inclusive for all members regardless of their political
background.
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background.
SSDAA is an international organization, how will the organization ensure global connection and unity?
SSDAA will maintain its international unity through a Global Coordination Office supported by regional chapters in each continent. Regular virtual meetings, international conferences, and communication platforms (like SSDAA WhatsApp group etc.) will enable continuous collaboration and shared goals. Our guiding principle is “One People, One Vision,” ensuring that regardless of where members live, they remain connected through common values, programs, and initiatives.
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How will SSDAA help people who are facing financial challenges and those who dropped out of school and now want to complete their studies?
SSDAA will build partnership with various institutions including educational institutions, community colleges, and online learning platforms and business communities to provide financial and educational pathways and scholarships for those who wish to return to school or improve their professional careers. SSDAA will institute an Education and Skills Development Program that will also offer mentorship, career counseling, and vocational training to help members upgrade their skills and achieve their academic or professional
goals.
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goals.
How will SSDAA motivate youth leaders to mobilize other youths to join the organization?
Youth are at the heart of SSDAA’s mission. We will create a Youth Leadership Council that empowers young leaders through training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. SSDAA will support youth-led initiatives, offer recognition and awards for innovation, opportunity for internship, and organize youth forums that encourage creativity,
entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. By giving young people ownership and visibility, we aim to inspire more youth to get involved and take leadership roles in building a stronger diaspora community and the change in the motherland.
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entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. By giving young people ownership and visibility, we aim to inspire more youth to get involved and take leadership roles in building a stronger diaspora community and the change in the motherland.